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Researchers develop solar power technology for internet access

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Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed technology that enables solar panels to detect broadband signals and makes internet access fuelled by the power of the sun possible.

The technology allows data to be transmitted on the World Wide Web using daylight, and, in addition, solar energy can be used to power such a device, as well as detect and carry data, the University of Edinburgh said in a statement on 10th April.

"This could enable self-sufficient wireless communications in remote areas, in developing regions with no web infrastructure, or in emergency situations."

Prototypes of the system have reached transmission speed of about seven Mbps, which is equivalent to maximum speeds in conventional wireless networks, it added.

The research builds on the Edinburgh team's pioneering Li-Fi technology, which enables data to be transmitted over the internet using LED light bulbs.

Professor Harald Haas was quoted as saying "Solar-powered li-fi could make internet access available in far-flung places, and opens up all sorts of possibilities for widespread wireless communications."